Timeline for CPNP-AC Certification
From the application process to recertification of your credential, use this chart to guide your planning.
How many weeks of study do you need? Is your employer offering a review course that you plan to take? Are you ready to test within 90 days of applying? Consider these questions and use these resources as you explore the process below.
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
Plan Your Certification Journey |
Varies by Candidate How many weeks of study do you need? How quickly does your school send transcripts? Are you ready to test within 90 days of applying? Consider these questions as you explore the process below. |
Apply Online |
15 Minutes Complete the application with payment. If you indicate an ADA need on your application, arrange for your Special Accommodations Form to be sent to PNCB. |
Request Transcript |
Varies by school Arrange for transcript(s) to be sent directly from your school to PNCB. Follow these guidelines. Ask your school for a time estimate. |
PNCB Review for Eligibility Approval |
As Received Your complete application is reviewed for approval after receipt of all supporting documents (online application with payment, transcript(s), ADA special accommodations form if indicated on your application). Transcripts are reviewed in the order received. Due to high-volume, candidates should not expect to have their transcript reviewed on the day of receipt. Transcript review and processing generally takes 2-3 weeks. Get real-time application status updates. |
PNCB Sends Scheduling Notification |
Within 3 Weeks after Eligibility Approval
|
Schedule Your Exam |
Within 2 Weeks of Notification Testing center seats can fill quickly. Schedule your test with PSI now, even if your scheduled date to test will be later in your 90-day window. You have 90 days to test. |
Take Your Exam |
Within 90 Days Honor your test appointment so you don't forfeit fees. Arrive 30 minutes early with proper IDs. You will receive pass/fail status information prior to leaving the test center. |
PNCB Emails Official Results |
2-3 Weeks You receive official exam results by email. Passing candidates also receive a wall certificate and information on staying certified. |
PNCB Sends Board Verfication of Certification |
2-3 Weeks Free verification to board(s) of nursing you listed on your application is automatically sent. Monitor verification(s) sent at My Documents. |
Plan Recertification |
Within 6 Months and Ongoing Learn how to stay certified. Get to know your Recert Dashboard. Seek out continuing education opportunities so you can use them to recertify. Log completed activities at My ReCErt Tracker to pre-load them for recertification. |
